TriPed

TriPed is a temporary three story parametric structure serving as a desert oasis, home and multilevel stage for performances. It was designed and built for Midburn 2016 by Fugara.

The Triped is a composite system with two main parts – the skeleton is collapsible steel structure supporting a 40 square meter first floor 3.5 meters in the air and a second floor and vantage point 7.5 meters in the air. This structure supported a lightweight organic parametric facade which defined the spaces and acted as pixel diffusers for the light animation. A textile canopy completed the shape and provided shade.

Parametric design was a cornerstone of the process. The layout and shape of the facade panels was achieved by iterating upon a Grasshopper script which converted organic surfaces to individual panels. By changing parameters, it was possible to vary the number of panels, their specific density, and their pseudo random placement until a satisfactory design was achieved.

These panels were then inputted into a custom app developed specifically for the project that measured the angle between parts and generated connector slots and connectors. The app outputted files that could be fed directly to a CNC router, allowing manufacturing of unique numbered parts and connectors. This created a direct flow from design to production without the need for additional steps.

The structure provided three main functions: first it was a hangout space, the upper floor provided partial shade and strong breezes above the dust, while the lower floor provided 100% shade creating one of the few cool spot in the city. Throughout the event workshops and talks were given, some planned, most spontaneous utilizing the unique space within the structure. Mostly at night, the Triped also acted as an immersive sound stage for performances for hundreds of participants. Much like the workshops, there were many planned shows, but many artists were drawn to perform in the structure by the unique setting, powerful sound system, and animated lighting.

It was my privilege to lead the design and management of this project within Fugara. I was especially excited to learn grasshopper while developing the design and delving into the challenges presented by creating a universal varied angle CNC connector.